G7 prepares new wave of sanctions against Russia: oil and international intermediaries in focus

The finance ministers of the G7 countries have agreed on joint steps to increase economic pressure on the Russian Federation. The corresponding statement was published on the official website of the government of Canada, which in 2025 will hold the G7 presidency.

The document emphasizes that Moscow's recent actions - from increasing attacks on civilian infrastructure to violating NATO airspace and shelling diplomatic and government facilities in Ukraine - are unacceptable. They are regarded as escalating and undermining the international community's efforts to establish peace.

One of the main directions of future sanctions will be the fight against Russian oil exports, which remain a key source of funding for the Kremlin's budget. The G7 countries intend to apply maximum pressure on those states and companies that continue to buy oil from Russia or contribute to circumventing restrictions.

Separately, the ministers emphasized that they are preparing a wide package of solutions aimed at meeting Ukraine's financial needs. This includes not only direct assistance, but also strengthening control instruments over those countries and structures that indirectly finance the Russian military machine.

The statement also notes that the G7 is considering the possibility of introducing additional trade barriers and restrictions against states and organizations engaged in the processing and supply of petroleum products from Russian raw materials. Such a step should make it impossible to financially support the aggressor through third markets.

As a reminder, the G7 includes the United States, Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada. Their consolidated position remains an important instrument of global economic pressure on Russia, which is combined with support for Ukraine in resisting aggression.